Voters residing within the boundaries of the Rochester Community School District elected today to approve a $185 million bond proposal that will fund critical infrastructure and technology enhancements and will improve student safety and school security.
“I would like to thank the greater Rochester residents, members of the Citizens Committee, our school parents and PTAs, local leaders and business owners, and our outstanding board of education, school administrators and staff for their support of the school bond proposal,” said Superintendent Robert Shaner, Ph.D. “It’s an honor to work among community members who place such a high value on education and are willing to invest in our students’ future.”
The school bond proposal is an outgrowth of the school district’s strategic plan, which called for a review of the district’s infrastructure, including facilities, technology, student safety, and school security.
“We are grateful that the community has voted to support the continuation of the school district’s long- range facilities plan,” said RCS Board of Education President Jennifer Berwick. “In addition to improving student safety and enhancing school facilities, the bond proposal will also provide for the necessary technology that supports classroom instruction and enriches the learning environment for all students.”
The school bond proposal will provide funding in order to:
- Improve student safety and school security.
- Address critical needs in roofs and in electrical and mechanical areas.
- Upgrade technology and technology infrastructure .
- Improve classroom and school interiors and refreshing classroom furniture.
- Establish permanent spaces for Pre-Kindergarten, adult and special education.
- Improve playgrounds, school sites, athletic facilities, and fine arts facilities.
- Replace school buses as they reach the end of their useful life.
“What’s really great is how this bond proposal impacts all of our children—our preschool learners through adult education. It’s all inclusive.” said Lisa Kowalski, chairperson of the Citizens Committee in support of the bond proposal. Kowalski was also one of the original members on the TI2020 committee who researched whether or not there was a need to fund updates, renovation and construction within the district.
“Passing this bond proposal shows how one generation has the ability to help the next generation succeed,” said Shaner. “We couldn’t be happier with the results.”
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